Get Fit at Hudson Valley Mixed Martial Arts Studios

Practice the high-intensity grappling and striking sport at community centers from Albany to Ulster.

By Sabrina Sucato

Published: 02/06/2019

Tired of the same old elliptical routine at the gym? Feeling like you’ve hit a plateau with your running loop? Say goodbye to the tried and tired sweat sessions and get with the fitness trend that’s rippling through the Hudson Valley instead.

Tougher than karate and more dynamic than boxing, mixed martial arts, or MMA, is the rough and tough sport that has sparked public interest both on television (hello UFC) and in the Hudson River region.

If you’re looking for a local exercise alternative that leaves you breathless and feeling like the king — or queen — of the world, head to one of the Valley’s mixed martial arts gyms. We can’t promise your time there will be easy, but that’s kind of the point. What we can promise, however, is that, if you stick with it, you’ll walk away with a hardcore fitness regimen that gets you in shape and engrains you with self-defense techniques that no one should be without.

With locations in Kingston and Coxsackie, the sister gyms of Dutcher Martial Arts and 99/1 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) offer instruction for interested individuals ages three and up. Specializations include Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, wrestling, MMA, and martial arts for children. Classes are led by a black belt instructor with over 15 years of experience.

With three locations in the Hudson Valley, Atlas is a one-stop shop for all things MMA. Brush up on your striking skills, learn all about judo, and master the art of Brazilian Jiu jitsu at any of the fitness centers, which cater to beginners and experts alike. For more experienced practitioners, scheduled bouts are available to give fighters a taste of what it’s like to be in the ring. At its Albany headquarters, Atlas boasts over 6,000 square feet of mat space.

With not one, but four locations along the river, Black Hole is one of the premier places to get your workout on in the Hudson Valley. All classes, from boxing and Brazilian Jiu jitsu to MMA and wrestling, aim to incorporate serious fitness with a general passion for the world of martial arts. For little learners, the Mighty Mites BJJ (ages 3-6) and the Juniors BJJ (ages 7-14) offer approachable introductions to the regimented sport.

Headquartered in the Albany area, Empire hosts classes on Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Krav Maga, MMA, Muay Thai kickboxing, obstacle course and ninja warrior training, and self-defense. For the MMA courses, no prior knowledge of the sport is required, and competitions are optional for those who want to put their fighting and sparring skills to use. As for fitness benefits, Empire’s MMA classes combine entertainment with intensity to build muscle, burn calories, and increase metabolism.

Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Sunday during the week, Hudson Valley Martial Arts and Boxing Academy has been alive and thriving since 2010. The Nanuet center teaches striking, locking, joint manipulation, self-defense, and mental discipline to entry-level and experienced practitioners who seek a serious challenge. In addition to the martial arts and boxing instruction, kickboxing and Muay Thai courses are also available.

A combination boxing and mixed martial arts studio, Precision offers programs that focus on Muay Thai kickboxing, BJJ, and grappling self-defense. Inside the facility, three training rooms allow attendees to get the most from each lesson, while an octagon ring simulates traditional MMA fighting ground. Zebra wall padding and crash pads are optimal for takedown and tackling during practices. As a major bonus, Precision makes a point to clean the gym twice a day and maintain strict hygiene policies. For young learners, classes for children are available as well.

Located in Middletown, the academy offers a balance of beginner, self-defense, and expert courses for MMA enthusiasts throughout the Hudson Valley. Founder Renzo Gracie is a retired professional fighter and Jiu jitsu coach who has helped train renowned fighters like Matt Serra, Georges St. Pierre, Frankie Edgar, and Chris Weidman. Needless to say, the man knows his stuff. In addition to the regular lineup of classes, the center also offers self-defense, wrestling, and children’s Jiu jitsu instruction.

Situated in Kingston’s uptown historic district, Stockade is a resource for anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu jitsu, and Kali. Individuals of all skill levels are welcome to the medley of classes, which are usually held in the evenings throughout the week. On the weekends, stop by during the open mat hours to get your heart pumping.

A registered UFC gym, the New City location will soon bring top-of-the-line training options to aspiring fighters and fitness-minded locals when it opens in 2019. Inside, a traditional octagon and bag room await, while dynamic MMA classes, a youth gym, and group fitness and personal training sessions offer everything visitors could crave. As for opening hours, UFC Gym will be a boon for anyone who wants to rise and grind. The space will open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the week and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.